There Are Three Possible Fates for the Universe: 1

question 12

Multiple Choice

There are three possible fates for the universe: 1. eternal expansion; 2. total collapse; or 3. some equilibrium condition with no further motion. What conditions might favor one result over the other?

• A) Critical volume-is the universe large enough for unlimited expansion?
• B) Critical velocity-is there enough momentum to continue expansion forever?
• C) Critical energy-is there enough energy in the universe to maintain either expansion or collapse?
• D) Critical density-is there enough mass in the universe to cause gravitational collapse?

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Definitions:

Exogenous DNA

DNA that originates outside an organism and can be introduced through viruses, horizontal gene transfer, or genetic engineering.

Spiracles

Small openings on the surface of some animals, especially insects, used for breathing.

Oxygen

A chemical element with the symbol O and atomic number 8, essential for most life forms on Earth as it is a key component of the respiratory processes of most living cells.

Insects

Small, arthropod animals characterized by having a segmented body, six legs, and generally one or two pairs of wings.